Raipur: There is good news for train passengers. Those booking tickets through railway reservation counters (PRS) will now also have the option to avail of an optional travel insurance scheme. This facility is being introduced in the South East Central Railway zone, effective from October 27, 2026. Previously, this option was primarily available only for online e-ticket bookings.
Insurance can be selected at the time of ticket booking
Under this new system, passengers can choose to opt for the Optional Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS) when booking a reserved ticket. To facilitate this, the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and IRCTC are collaborating to implement the necessary technical updates to the reservation system.
Opting for insurance is not mandatory. Counter staff will inform passengers about the scheme, and the insurance process will only be completed once the passenger provides their consent.
Mobile number and digital payment required
Passengers wishing to avail of the insurance must provide a mobile number. Additionally, the prescribed premium must be paid via digital modes. Details regarding the insurance policy will be sent to the passenger’s registered mobile number. This facility cannot be availed without a mobile number.
Insurance coverage of up to ₹10 lakh in the event of accidental death
The travel insurance scheme provides financial protection—subject to policy terms and conditions—in the event of eligible train accidents or other specified incidents. The insurance coverage details are as follows:
In case of death: ₹10 lakh
In case of permanent total disability: ₹10 lakh
In case of permanent partial disability: ₹7.50 lakh
Medical expenses for hospitalization: Up to ₹2 lakh
Transportation of mortal remains: Up to ₹10,000
All these benefits are subject to the terms, conditions, and provisions of the policy.
Premium of 45 paise per passenger
According to the policy documentation, the premium—effective from February 17, 2024—is set at ₹0.45 per passenger (inclusive of all taxes). Passengers should verify the applicable premium at the time of booking their tickets. If the insurance option is selected, the specified amount must be paid digitally.
Which passengers are eligible?
Under this scheme, passengers with confirmed, RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), or partially confirmed reservations may be eligible for insurance, subject to specific terms and conditions. Children under the age of five, who travel without a dedicated berth or seat, are not covered under this insurance policy.
In certain specific circumstances—such as when a train is diverted, when a passenger is allotted a different train under the ‘VIKALP’ scheme, or when travel is undertaken via alternative transport provided by the Railways—insurance coverage may still apply, in accordance with the policy terms.
Instructions for staff
To ensure the smooth implementation of this new facility, the relevant procedures will be explained to reservation supervisors and staff. Railway divisional officials will monitor the system. In the event of any technical issues, CRIS and IRCTC will be notified so that the problems can be resolved.
Insurance claims to be settled by the respective company
Passengers should note that the responsibility for issuing the insurance policy and settling eligible claims lies with the respective insurance company. In the event of an accident or any other qualifying incident, passengers should contact the insurance company directly using the contact details provided in the policy document to file a claim.
